Coriander
Coriander is a versatile and popular spice that offer an impressive range of health benefits. It has a light, slightly sweet flavour and goes well in curries, chillis, barbecue sauces and other dishes.
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) is another member of the parsley family used worldwide and is called cilantro in the US when referring to its leaves, while the seeds are called coriander. Like cumin, coriander seeds were found in Alit-Yam, the oldest record of this spice in the world but there were other interesting finds. In the late 1980s, several boxes of plant remains, including millet, barley, black cumin, coriander and watermelon seeds were discovered in storage at London’s Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. They worked out that they had been taken from the tomb of Tutankhamen in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter but had been forgotten for over 50 years. India is also the largest producer of coriander.
Supports gut health
Coriander may reduce digestive symptoms such as pain, bloating and discomfort often experienced by people with IBS.
Protects heart health
Studies suggest coriander may protect heart health by lowering blood pressure and LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol, while increasing HDL ‘good’ cholesterol. As a diuretic, coriander may help flush excess sodium from the body, reducing blood pressure. Using herbs instead of salt to flavour food may also help reduce sodium intake.
Rich in antioxidants
Scientists now think inflammation underpins the link between diet and many chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Coriander seeds contain antioxidants that combat inflammation, contributing to overall health and reducing disease risk.
Improves skin health
Traditionally, coriander has been used to treat mild skin conditions such as rashes. Its antibacterial and antioxidant properties may help but more research is needed.
Helps regulate blood sugar
Coriander may lower blood sugar by activating certain enzymes that help process glucose. It can be so effective that people with low blood sugar or who take diabetes medication are advised to use coriander cautiously.
Supports brain health
Coriander’s anti-inflammatory properties may help protect against brain diseases associated with inflammation, such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
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